So, you’ve finished your 12th grade with science, that’s awesome! Now you’re probably wondering, “What’s next? Are there any entrance exams I need to take to get into the college or course I want?” The answer is often YES! Many great careers that start with a science background require you to nail an entrance exam. Let’s break down the most common and important ones.
Medical Field Entrance Exams
Want to be a doctor, dentist, or work in healthcare? You’ll likely need to take a medical entrance exam. These are usually tough, but with the right preparation, you can ace them!
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test)
NEET is the big one if you dream of becoming a doctor (MBBS), dentist (BDS), or studying AYUSH courses (like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy). It’s a national-level exam, meaning it’s the same exam all across India. Your score determines which medical or dental college you can get into.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology), all based on the 11th and 12th grade syllabus.
- Who conducts it: National Testing Agency (NTA).
- Why it’s important: NEET is mandatory for most medical and dental colleges in India, including private ones.
AIIMS Entrance Exam (Now replaced by NEET)
Previously, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) conducted its own entrance exam. However, now admissions to AIIMS are also based on NEET scores.
JIPMER Entrance Exam (Now replaced by NEET)
Similarly, the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER) used to have its own entrance exam, but admissions are now through NEET.
Engineering Entrance Exams
If you love building, designing, and problem-solving, engineering might be your calling. Engineering entrance exams are your gateway to top engineering colleges.
JEE Main (Joint Entrance Examination Main)
JEE Main is the first step to getting into most engineering colleges in India, including the National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and other government-funded technical institutions. Your score also determines if you’re eligible to take the JEE Advanced.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, based on the 11th and 12th grade syllabus.
- Who conducts it: National Testing Agency (NTA).
- Why it’s important: It’s the gateway to top engineering colleges and a qualifying exam for JEE Advanced.
JEE Advanced (Joint Entrance Examination Advanced)
JEE Advanced is for those aiming for the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). It’s a much tougher exam than JEE Main and tests your problem-solving skills in depth. Only the top performers in JEE Main are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, at a higher difficulty level than JEE Main.
- Who conducts it: One of the IITs organizes the exam each year on a rotation basis.
- Why it’s important: It’s the only way to get into the IITs, which are considered the premier engineering institutes in India.
State-Level Engineering Entrance Exams
Many states have their own engineering entrance exams for admissions to state government and private engineering colleges within the state. Examples include MHT CET (Maharashtra), WBJEE (West Bengal), and KEAM (Kerala).
- What it tests: Usually Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, based on the state board’s 11th and 12th grade syllabus.
- Who conducts it: Respective state government bodies.
- Why it’s important: It’s often easier to secure a seat in a good engineering college within your state through these exams.
Other Science-Related Entrance Exams
Science isn’t just about medicine and engineering! There are many other exciting fields you can explore.
NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam
If you dream of joining the armed forces (Army, Navy, or Air Force), the NDA exam is your ticket. It’s conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission).
- What it tests: Mathematics and General Ability Test (which includes English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, and Current Events).
- Who conducts it: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
- Why it’s important: It’s the entry point to the National Defence Academy, where you’ll train to become an officer in the Indian armed forces.
IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)
Want to pursue research in basic sciences? The Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) are top-notch institutions. Admission is through the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), JEE Advanced, or KVPY.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
- Who conducts it: The IISERs collectively.
- Why it’s important: It’s a primary pathway to get into IISERs for BS-MS dual degree programs.
NEIST Entrance Exam
The North-East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST) conducts its own entrance exam for admission to its various science programs.
- What it tests: Varies depending on the program, but generally covers Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and/or Biology.
- Who conducts it: North-East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST).
- Why it’s important: To get into specific science programs offered by NEIST.
ICAR AIEEA (All India Entrance Examination for Admission)
Interested in agriculture and related fields? The ICAR AIEEA is for you. It’s conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in agricultural universities.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics/Agriculture.
- Who conducts it: National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
- Why it’s important: To get into agricultural universities and pursue careers in agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, and related fields.
How to Prepare for Entrance Exams
Okay, so now you know about the different entrance exams. But how do you actually prepare for them? Here are a few tips:
- Know the syllabus: Find out exactly what topics are covered in the exam. Don’t waste time studying things that aren’t on the test.
- Create a study schedule: Plan your study time so you cover everything you need to learn. Be realistic about how much you can study each day.
- Use good study materials: Textbooks, notes, practice problems, and online resources can all be helpful.
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Take practice tests under timed conditions to get used to the pressure.
- Stay healthy: Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly. Taking care of your body will help you focus and perform better on the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which entrance exam is the toughest?
JEE Advanced is generally considered one of the toughest entrance exams because of its high difficulty level and the fact that it’s only for the top performers in JEE Main. NEET is also highly competitive due to the large number of applicants.
Can I take more than one entrance exam?
Yes, you can absolutely take more than one entrance exam! Many students take both JEE Main and NEET, or multiple state-level engineering exams, to increase their chances of getting into a good college. Just make sure you can manage the workload and prepare adequately for each exam.
When should I start preparing for entrance exams?
Ideally, you should start preparing from the beginning of your 11th grade. This gives you enough time to cover the syllabus thoroughly and practice regularly. However, if you’re starting later, don’t worry! You can still prepare effectively with focused effort and a good study plan.
Are coaching classes necessary for entrance exam preparation?
Coaching classes can be helpful, but they’re not essential. They can provide structured learning, guidance, and practice materials. However, many students succeed without coaching by studying on their own using textbooks, online resources, and self-discipline. It depends on your learning style and how well you can manage your studies independently.
Choosing the right path after 12th science can feel overwhelming, but understanding the available entrance exams is the first step. Research your interests, identify your strengths, and choose the exams that align with your career goals. Good luck with your preparations!